Intelligent, multilingual packaging system with integrated, flexible E-Ink display, instant authenticity and quality verification, embedded environmental sensor system for seamless monitoring of transport and storage conditions, advanced NFC and UHF technology, and modularly expandable sensors for application- and industry-specific future requirements

Abstract

. Intelligent, multilingual packaging system (1) for regulated or sensitive products, comprising a) a flexible, bistable E-Ink display layer (2) as an integral part of the primary packaging, b) a microcontroller unit (MCU) (3) with integrated non-volatile memory unit (EEPROM / Flash) (4) for local, tamper-proof data storage, c) a passively operated NFC module (5) for wireless, contactless data communication with mobile devices in the near field, d) a UHF RFID module (6) with dual-band antenna for large-scale traceability in warehouse and logistics processes, e) an internal, energy-optimised environmental sensor system (7) for the continuous recording of at least one parameter from the group {temperature, relative humidity, light intensity, pressure, movement, gas concentration}, (f) an ultra-thin solid-state battery (8) with a nominal operating time of ≥ 3 years, g) an energy management unit (9) which activates the display, sensors and radio modules exclusively in an event- or interval-controlled manner, whereby the system (1) enables immediate, offline-capable authenticity and quality verification of the product as well as multilingual information display in real time, without being dependent on a permanent Internet connection

Description

[0001] This innovation project involves the development of a highly integrated, interactive smart packaging system with a multilingual user interface, implemented using a flexible, energy-saving E-Ink display. This enables immediate, personalized information presentation in real time through NFC-based interaction with mobile devices.

[0002] The system's core components include a real-time authentication and quality monitoring system, as well as an integrated sensor system for the precise recording and unalterable storage of critical environmental parameters such as temperature and humidity. This ensures seamless, tamper-proof documentation of transport and storage conditions.

[0003] The combination of near-field communication (NFC) and ultra-high frequency (UHF) technology enables high-resolution, scalable traceability along the entire supply chain. The system architecture ensures full compatibility with both industrial and consumer-oriented readers.

[0004] This multidisciplinary system addresses the complex requirements of strictly regulated industries, particularly the pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, cosmetic, and sensitive food industries, by ensuring product safety, regulatory compliance, and improved user interaction and application flexibility.

[0005] In addition, the system supports seamless integration into digital health platforms, including medication adherence monitoring, and strictly complies with international standards and regulations such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), the EU Falsified Medicines Directive (FMD), the regulations of the US FDA, and the requirements of the Chinese NMPA.

[0006] The modular sensor platform offers expandable functionality through the integration of additional sensors, for example, for gaseous pollutants (NH3, CO2, H2S, ethylene), digital ripeness indicators beyond optical measurement methods, and sensors for light, pressure, and motion. This flexibility allows for individual adaptation to specific use cases and future market requirements. State of the art and technical background:

[0007] Currently, most packaging systems on the global market are based on conventional, fixed labels written in one or more specified languages ​​and do not offer any form of intelligent interaction or real-time information updates. Technologies such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or encrypted QR codes are used for authentication or to redirect the user to websites, but these methods are: 1. No integrated electronic display is provided within the packaging that allows immediate display of information in multiple languages." 2. The integration of a flexible display (e.g. E-Ink) in combination with an ultra-thin battery that enables an operating time of over three years without recharging or replacement is not currently realized 3 . The lack of energy-efficient integration of dual-frequency technologies—Near Field Communication (NFC) for end users and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) for warehouse and logistics processes—with a power-saving display. 4. It does not allow immediate interaction between the packaging and the smartphone without the need for a permanent internet connection. 5. Current systems lack adequate compliance with FMD and GMP regulations because they lack a tamper-evident environmental data capture system within the packaging. 6. There is a lack of integration of internal environmental sensors to accurately and continuously detect variations in environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity during transport and storage. 7. Existing systems do not have an automated, multilingual synchronization mechanism that allows for the immediate and native presentation of multilingual information directly on the packaging without the need to install external applications or access web resources. 8. Such systems typically do not feature seamless integration with digital health information systems and do not enable precise, continuous, and tamper-proof real-time monitoring of medication administration. 9. Traditional display technologies exhibit high energy consumption, which significantly shortens battery life in embedded systems. This limits their application, particularly in disposable packaging, which requires long-term, maintenance-free, and energy-efficient information display. 10. Currently available technologies do not offer a holistic, integrated solution that combines immediate verification of authenticity, continuous monitoring of environmental conditions, and the provision of interactive, multilingual information in real time—as my invention enables. 11. In the sensitive food sector, current smart packaging systems are largely limited to external or separate sensors and are not directly integrated into the consumer package. This significantly compromises the accuracy of environmental monitoring and the real-time capability of information presentation.

[0008] ** Current international packaging systems do not offer an integrated solution that ensures immediate user interaction, multi-level authenticity and quality verification, and continuous internal environmental monitoring within the primary packaging - while simultaneously complying with international regulatory requirements (e.g., GMP, FDA, FMD, NMPA) in highly sensitive areas such as pharmaceuticals, sensitive food, cosmetics, and dietary supplements.

[0009] This highlights the urgent need for an innovative, modularly expandable and industrially scalable smart packaging solution that combines all these functions in a single system, thus defining a new technological class of intelligent packaging. # Legal and technical notice:

[0010] This system may require a temporary internet connection under certain circumstances, particularly for the secure and encrypted synchronization of collected sensor data or tracking information with centralized servers via mobile applications or cloud infrastructures. This enables comprehensive data analysis, continuous remote monitoring of the supply chain, and the implementation of software and information updates as part of maintenance, security, or expansion processes.

[0011] Nevertheless, the essential core functions – including real-time display of product information, authenticity verification, precise environmental monitoring using integrated sensors, and adaptive, multilingual user interaction – are designed to operate reliably autonomously and independently of a permanent online connection.

[0012] **Stakeholders within the smart supply chain are empowered to retrieve relevant product information independently of a permanent internet connection. This is made possible by the integration of sophisticated, energy-efficient communication technologies and local data processing systems within the smart packaging.

[0013] The system architecture is based on robust data persistence and security protocols that ensure reliable real-time data display and authenticity verification even in offline operation.

[0014] The following technical principles are applied: 1. Flexible electronic E-Ink display:

[0015] Enables the immediate, multilingual display of stored data on the packaging surface using energy-saving e-paper technology.

[0016] Due to the bistable display, the display does not require any continuous power supply to maintain the image and only updates the display when the content changes, which reduces energy consumption to a minimum. The information is presented autonomously and without dependence on external communication interfaces, thus ensuring visual reception of the data without an internet connection. 2. NFC transponder:

[0017] The transponder operates passively, does not require its own power source, but is inductively activated by the alternating electromagnetic field of a compatible reader.

[0018] When an NFC-enabled smartphone – which is now integrated as standard in most mobile devices – is approached, the data stored in the chip is transferred immediately and without latency to the reader.

[0019] Essential, immutable metadata can be stored on the chip, for example: Place of origin of the product History of transport and storage conditions Application and usage information Communication takes place entirely offline, without dependence on a network connection, ensuring robust, secure, and immediate verification along the supply chain and for end users. 3. UHF RFID technology: • This technology is primarily designed for warehouses and industrial facilities. • Data is collected using permanently installed RFID readers at defined checkpoints, such as in logistics centers or distribution warehouses. • It is used to precisely and efficiently monitor and track product quantities and their movements within the supply chain. Immediate internet access is not required at the time of reading, as the recorded data is temporarily stored and only transferred to central systems at a later time when a network connection is available.

[0020] This ensures continuous operability and system integration even under limited connectivity conditions. 4. Integrated environmental sensors within the packaging: • Continuously and with high precision records environmental parameters such as temperature, relative humidity or - depending on the specific application - gaseous compounds (e.g. NH3, CO2, H2S, ethylene). • The measurement data is stored in a tamper-proof manner on a non-volatile, integrated memory module within the packaging system. • An aggregated evaluation or status display can either be shown visually via the integrated E-Ink display or transmitted in real time to an external mobile device via a contactless NFC interface - completely offline, without the need for a network connection.

[0021] # Depending on the application or specific industrial or functional area of ​​use: Application area pharmaceuticals: temperature sensors, humidity sensors, authenticity verification display Application area cosmetics: multilingual display, NFC, light or temperature sensor Application area sensitive food (e.g. meat or dairy products): gas sensors (NH3, CO2), ripening indicators, internal temperature sensors Application area of ​​dietary supplements: NFC, information display, environmental data collection

[0022] This differentiated assignment ensures that the sensor technology and the display elements are precisely adapted to the respective product-specific requirements and operating conditions. # “Memory chip” =

[0023] Within the framework of the described intelligent packaging system, the memory chip represents a central functional element within the miniaturized electronics. It is usually integrated into one of the following electronic subsystems: 1 • Microcontroller unit (MCU)

[0024] In this configuration, the memory is integrated into the microcontroller as a non-volatile storage structure—typically EEPROM or Flash. It serves to store sensor-dynamic measurement data, context-related system states, and to temporarily store display data for the flexible E-Ink display.

[0025] The data is processed and managed locally, ensuring low-latency response, deterministic data control, and energy-optimized operation. 2 • Via integrated memory of modern NFC or UHF chips:

[0026] Advanced NFC or UHF transponders often contain integrated, non-volatile memory units (e.g., NDEF-compatible EEPROM) that are used to securely store structured data such as transport protocols, product-specific identifiers, or results from embedded sensors.

[0027] Access to these data records is contactless via an external reader using inductive coupling—without the chip requiring its own power source. The power supply for data transmission is provided entirely by the reader's electromagnetic field. 3 • As a standalone, power-saving memory module (e.g. EEPROM or Flash):

[0028] - Is particularly used when greater data capacity is required or when functional decoupling between the data processing unit (MCU) and data storage is desired. -

[0029] These memory types are characterized by their high energy efficiency and reliability and are usually connected via standardized serial interfaces such as I 2 C or SPI controlled and written from the central control unit. Physical integration typically occurs within a microelectronic capsule, which is embedded either in the flexible substrate layer of the packaging or in the inner protective seal. The entire system design is guided by strict requirements regarding mechanical flexibility, miniaturized design, and minimal energy consumption to ensure long-term stability and self-sufficient operation without maintenance. # Is it necessary to explicitly mention the memory module? And why?

[0030] Yes - from a technical, functional and patent law perspective, the specification of an integrated memory element represents an essential part of the overall system. 1. Local storage of critical operating data

[0031] These include in particular: • Environmental data (e.g. temperature, humidity or gas concentration profiles) • Verification and authentication information • Traceability and logistics protocols

[0032] The possibility of decentralized data storage within the packaging system ensures network-independent, self-sufficient information availability.

[0033] This is particularly important in safety-critical applications - such as in the pharmaceutical, food or medical sectors - as the integrity and traceability of product information is guaranteed even without a continuous internet connection. 2.Regulatory compliance (such as Good Manufacturing Practices - GMP,

[0034] the EU directive on combating counterfeit medicines (FMD), Chinese regulations and the regulations of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

[0035] Regulatory compliance is a key foundation for the development of intelligent packaging systems, especially in sensitive applications such as medicines, pharmaceutical products, and delicate food products. International regulatory authorities, including the European Union, China, and the United States, require the implementation of tamper-evident, reliable data storage secured locally within the packaging unit.

[0036] Within the European Union, both the Falsified Medicines Directive (FMD) and the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) require complete and tamper-proof documentation of supply chain information and environmental conditions to ensure the highest safety and quality standards.

[0037] In China, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) requires the use of sophisticated data storage and traceability systems that ensure the security, immutability, and reliability of product-specific information—in accordance with international standards.

[0038] These regulatory requirements explicitly extend not only to the pharmaceutical sector, but also include particularly sensitive areas such as food with increased safety requirements and cosmetic products.

[0039] The use of electronic documentation procedures and advanced authentication mechanisms is required as mandatory in order to strengthen consumer protection, counterfeit security, quality guarantees and transparency along the entire supply chain.

[0040] On the American side, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) places great emphasis on the use of intelligent verification technologies that ensure the integrity and safety of pharmaceutical and sensitive food products.

[0041] In accordance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) requirements, the FDA requires the local, immutable, and tamper-evident storage of precise environmental and distribution data within the packaging unit itself. These requirements are part of a comprehensive regulatory framework designed to ensure end-to-end traceability and monitoring of the entire supply chain.

[0042] The non-volatile memory chip (e.g., EEPROM or Flash) represents an optimal solution for meeting these diverse requirements. It enables locally secured, tamper-proof, and immutable storage of sensitive data, such as temperature logs, authentication data, and logistics tracking records. This ensures that the system meets the highest standards of governance and global compliance. 3.Significant competitive advantage

[0043] The integration of an internal memory allows immediate and reliable display of data on the screen, even after extended storage periods. This feature is a clear advantage over current systems that rely exclusively on internet connections or central servers. • Expandability / further development capability of the invention"Future perspective of the invention:

[0044] ** This innovation can be expanded to include sensitive foodstuffs by equipping it with gas sensors (e.g., NH3, CO2, H2S, ethylene) and ripeness indicators that can be detected not only visually but also electronically or by measurement. This enables real-time monitoring of product quality. The acquired data can be synchronized with cloud platforms via smart supply chains based on IoT technologies. This increases food safety and significantly reduces food waste.

[0045] ** With further developments, the system can also be expanded with additional sensors—such as light, pressure, or motion sensors. These enable even more sophisticated monitoring of environmental and handling conditions, especially for particularly sensitive products in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or food processing sectors.

[0046] •• All of the sensors mentioned represent coherent and innovative extensions within the context of future development options for this technology. Their integration into the existing electronic design is feasible without substantial modifications, particularly considering a highly efficient energy management system—consisting of an ultra-thin battery and intelligent power supply control—as well as a modular and scalable system architecture that allows for flexible adaptation and expansion.

Claims

[1] . Intelligent, multilingual packaging system (1) for regulated or sensitive products, comprising a) a flexible, bistable E-Ink display layer (2) as an integral part of the primary packaging, b) a microcontroller unit (MCU) (3) with integrated non-volatile memory unit (EEPROM / Flash) (4) for local, tamper-proof data storage, c) a passively operated NFC module (5) for wireless, contactless data communication with mobile devices in the near field, d) a UHF RFID module (6) with dual-band antenna for large-scale traceability in warehouse and logistics processes, e) an internal, energy-optimised environmental sensor system (7) for the continuous recording of at least one parameter from the group {temperature, relative humidity, light intensity, pressure, movement, gas concentration}, (f) an ultra-thin solid-state battery (8) with a nominal operating time of ≥ 3 years, g) an energy management unit (9) which activates the display, sensors and radio modules exclusively in an event- or interval-controlled manner, whereby the system (1) enables immediate, offline-capable authenticity and quality verification of the product as well as multilingual information display in real time, without being dependent on a permanent Internet connection [2] Packaging system according to claim 1, characterized by that the E-Ink display layer (2) has a resolution of at least 200 ppi and updates its image content only when data changes [3] Packaging system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the NFC module (5) contains an NDEF-compatible, cryptographically signed data set that enables forgery-proof authentication according to EU FMD and FDA guidelines [4] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the UHF RFID module (6) supports an EPC Gen2 standard and enables a reading range of at least 0.5 meters at ≤ 2 W ERP [5] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the environmental sensor system (7) comprises gas sensors for detecting volatile compounds NH3, CO2, H2S and ethylene and stores their measured values ​​with a time stamp [6] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that ripeness or freshness indicators are digitally recorded and displayed on the display (2) as well as recorded in the memory (4) [7] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a modular bus (10) with standardized I 2 C or SPI interface enables the subsequent integration of additional sensors without changing the basic architecture. [8] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that all stored data (temperature, humidity, gas and logistics protocols) are provided with a unique, tamper-proof hash signature [9] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that when a mobile device approaches, the display language is automatically adapted to the system language stored in the device [10] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the energy management unit (9) switches to a deep sleep mode of < 2 µA quiescent current as soon as there is no sensor measurement or display event. [11] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that all system components comply with the regulatory requirements of GMP, EU-FMD, FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and NMPA guidelines. [12] . Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that it is used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, dietary supplements and highly perishable foods and uses product-specific calibrated sensor thresholds. [13] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the stored data is transferred to a cloud platform in encrypted form when a network connection is available, while the core functions are fully retained in offline mode. [14] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the display updates at most every 24 hours unless a critical measurement value is exceeded in order to maximize battery life. [15] Packaging system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a firmware update can be performed via the NFC interface, whereby the integrity of the new firmware is verified by an asymmetric signature.